Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao are two of the greatest fighters of the 21st century.
Both ‘Money’ and ‘Pac-Man’ have reached the highs of the sport, including winning world titles in different weight classes.
From Mayweather’s huge-money showdown with McGregor to Pacquiao winning two Ring Magazine ‘Fighter of the Year’ awards, the two men are among the greatest of all time.
The two faced one another in a welterweight world title unification bout in 2015, as the two had one of the highest revenue-generating boxing fights ever. However, the build-up was slightly unorthodox for a ‘Money’ fight.
Floyd Mayweather explains lack of trash talk ahead of Manny Pacquiao showdown
Although Mayweather was known for his verbal barbs, it was not something that was on display ahead of his huge showdown with Pacquiao.
Despite the buildup for the blockbuster event being huge, there was more of a quiet and respectful demeanor from ‘Money’ going into the bout.
When asked by Rappler why his approach was different ahead of the fight, Mayweather indicated the quality of the two fighters was so high, that it didn’t need any extra marketing.
“This fight right here, it sells itself. I had to have the personality [in other fights], I had to be outspoken, now, this fight sells itself. I don’t have to say anything,” Mayweather said.
The former champion then went on to say that at the time, he felt more mature as a person as part of his growth. “I can no longer grow [physically] so I have to grow mentally.”
Floyd Mayweather defeated Manny Pacquiao via unanimous decision
When the blockbuster fight eventually happened in May 2015, the fight was as huge as anticipated. Both men were able to show some of their top skills in the ring. However, only one man could emerge as the victor.
Despite Pacquiao having some success in the fight, it would be Mayweather who emerged the victor, defending his unbeaten record.
The judges would score the bout unanimously for Mayweather, who retained his WBA and WBC World Welterweight titles while taking Pacquiao’s WBO belt.
The win would make Mayweather’s professional record 48-0, as he retired from professional action two years later.